Zimbabwe inches closer to rejoining Britain's colonies club

Zimbabwe's "remarkable democratic progress" has positioned the nation closer to rejoining the Commonwealth, the bloc's secretary-general, Ms. Patricia Scotland, has said.

As Zimbabwe intensifies its re-engagement efforts under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership, Commonwealth member states are set to decide on the country's readmission by November 26.

"I now invite Heads of Government to make known to me their views on Zimbabwe's request to re-join the Commonwealth," wrote Ms. Scotland in a letter to member states last month. If no objections are raised, Zimbabwe will be invited to submit a formal application, marking the final step toward readmission.
Progress on Reforms

A Commonwealth report highlights Zimbabwe's significant strides in addressing concerns raised by previous membership assessment missions in 2018, 2019, and 2022. The reforms have focused on improving the political and legal environment, particularly in areas like media freedom, constitutional amendments, and depolarising the political landscape.

While acknowledging that challenges remain, the Commonwealth has praised Zimbabwe's willingness to engage in reform processes and expressed readiness to support further initiatives.

"The Government has implemented numerous reform initiatives to address the polarised political environment and align Zimbabwe's democratic institutions with international standards and Commonwealth values," the report states.
Widespread Support for Readmission

Most African nations back Zimbabwe's bid, with political analysts viewing the move as a step toward reintegrating the country into the global community.

Advocate Obert Gutu noted the symbolic importance of rejoining the Commonwealth, saying it would enhance Zimbabwe's image internationally.

"The optics would be very good for brand Zimbabwe. In international relations, optics do matter. A country is generally judged and perceived by the company that it keeps," he said.

Political analyst Mr. Tongai Dana echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential economic benefits of overlapping memberships in international organizations.

"This is a very huge indicator of better and bigger things to come. Zimbabwe's readmission is imminent, and the Commonwealth sees the nation through a new lens. This could catalyse economic diplomacy and foster partnerships that benefit our economy," he said.
Background and Future Prospects

Zimbabwe was suspended from the Commonwealth in 2002 following its controversial land reform program. Over two decades later, the government's re-engagement drive has yielded progress, with leaders like Canada's Global Affairs Department analyzing Ms. Scotland's recommendations.

"The readmission process includes consultations with stakeholders and rigorous reviews of reforms. The decision will ultimately reflect the collective will of member states," said Commonwealth spokesperson Ms. Charmaine Wright.

If successful, Zimbabwe will join a bloc of 56 countries representing 2.5 billion people, spanning advanced economies and developing nations.

The last additions to the Commonwealth were Gabon and Togo in 2022, with Zimbabwe potentially marking the next chapter in the organization's expanding membership.